Uri, Jammu and Kashmir, May 17 : The recent announcement of adding the frontier town of Uri to the national railway network has sparked joy among the local residents. They anticipate that the introduction of train services will not only improve their daily commutes but also boost the region’s trade and tourism industries.
Officials from the Northern Railway have disclosed plans to commence work on the 50-kilometer Baramulla-Uri railway line. Tenders have already been issued, and the rail authorities are preparing to conduct the Final Location Survey (FLS), which is expected to be completed within three months of tender awarding.
The extension of the railway line from Baramulla to Uri is anticipated to enhance connectivity to Baramulla, Srinagar, and Banihal. The local population has warmly welcomed the provision of railway connectivity to the border town, situated 102 kilometers away from Srinagar.
“We express our gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor and the Union Railway Minister for announcing the construction of a 50-kilometer railway line to Uri. This development will bring significant benefits to the people,” stated Mir Mushtaq, a local BJP leader. He further emphasized that the railway line will generate employment opportunities for the locals.
Mohammad Shafi, a trade leader, hailed the initiative, stating, “This is a commendable step that will not only stimulate trade and business but also give a substantial boost to the tourism sector. With increased footfall, business activities will flourish, and traveling to Uri from any part of the country will become more convenient.” Shafi also noted that the railway line will ensure seamless connectivity to the rest of the country and provide an alternative route to the national highway, which often faces disruptions throughout the year.
The railway line’s strategic significance cannot be overlooked, as it will facilitate the transportation of troops, equipment, and supplies to the forward areas along the Line of Control. The Indian Army has recently allowed tourists to visit the Kaman Aman Setu Bridge, which connects the Kashmir Valley to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), and is actively promoting the region as a tourist destination.
However, since the suspension of the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service in February 2019 following a terrorist attack in Pulwama, access to the bridge has been restricted. The 220-ft bridge serves as the de facto Line of Control between India and Pakistan, and its gates have remained locked.
